<![CDATA[Background/purpose. Academic supervision is widely recognized as a strategic mechanism for improving teacher professionalism and instructional quality. Nevertheless, in many early childhood education (ECE) settings, supervision continues to be implemented primarily as an administrative obligation rather than as a continuous professional learning process. This study aims to examine how academic supervision is enacted as an instructional leadership practice in ECE by exploring its implementation processes, challenges, and contributions to teachers’ professional practices. Materials/methods. This study employed a qualitative multiple-case study design involving eight kindergartens in Kendari City, Indonesia. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis. The data were analyzed using within-case and cross-case analysis to identify recurring patterns and contextual differences across cases. Results. The findings reveal that the effectiveness of academic supervision is determined less by school status than by principals’ instructional leadership, the quality of interpersonal relationships, and the consistency of follow-up mentoring. Public kindergartens tend to exhibit stronger formal supervisory structures, whereas private kindergartens demonstrate greater relational flexibility in supervisory practices. Academic supervision that integrates reflective dialogue, emotional support, classroom feedback, and sustained mentoring contributes to meaningful improvements in teachers’ instructional practices and professional development. Conclusion. Effective academic supervision in ECE extends beyond administrative compliance and functions as an instructional leadership process that promotes continuous teacher learning. Integrative supervision characterized by reflective collaboration, supportive relationships, and ongoing mentoring strengthens teacher professionalism and enhances the quality of classroom instruction across both public and private kindergarten contexts.]]>
